Kathmandu is a city that feels alive in every season. From the golden light over Boudhanath Stupa in autumn to the blooming jacarandas in spring, each time of year has its own rhythm. But if you’re planning your trip and wondering the best time to visit Kathmandu, the answer depends on what kind of experience you want.
As part of the KGH Group with over 50 years of hospitality excellence, our hotel in Kathmandu has welcomed travelers in every season, families escaping the winter chill, couples celebrating spring honeymoons, and trekkers chasing the clear autumn skies. With decades of local insight, here’s our honest take on the best time to visit Kathmandu.
Autumn (September to November): The Most Popular Season
If you ask most travelers, the best season to visit Kathmandu is autumn. And it’s easy to see why.
The monsoon rains are gone, the air is crisp, and the Himalayas seem close enough to touch. Festivals like Dashain and Tihar bring the city to life with kites, lights, and laughter.
Why visit in autumn?
- Crystal-clear skies (perfect for trekking and photography)
- Comfortable weather: warm days, cool nights
- Biggest festivals of the year
If you’re wondering “Is October a good time to visit Nepal?” it’s actually the very best. Hotels book up quickly, so plan in advance.
Spring (March to May): Colorful and Romantic
The good time to visit Nepal if you love color and energy is spring. Streets are lined with blooming flowers, valleys turn green, and the weather warms up just enough for pleasant sightseeing.
Why visit in Spring?
- Blooming rhododendrons and jacarandas
- Festivals like Holi add bursts of joy and color
- Perfect for couples looking for a romantic escape
Many travelers say March and April are the best months to visit Kathmandu, not too hot, not too crowded, and full of energy.
Winter (December to February): Peaceful and Affordable
If you don’t mind chilly mornings, winter is a good time to visit Kathmandu for budget travelers. Crowds thin out, the air is dry, and you’ll find cozy cafés with fireplaces to warm up in.
Why visit in winter?
- Clear skies and fewer tourists
- Better hotel deals
- Sunny days for cultural sightseeing
Trekking at higher altitudes can be tough in winter, but city walks and valley trips are perfect.
Summer & Monsoon (June to August): Green but Rainy
This is the season most travelers avoid, but locals know the charm. The afternoon rains make the valley lush, the air feels fresh, and the city is quieter.
Why visit in monsoon?
- Lush landscapes, great for photography
- Quieter heritage sites and temples
- Best hotel deals of the year
If you don’t mind a little rain, this can be the best time to travel to Kathmandu for a slower, more affordable experience.
Kathmandu Weather by Month
To help you decide the best time to go to Kathmandu, here’s a quick look at average monthly weather in the valley:
| Month | Avg. High (°C | Avg. Low (°C) | Rainfall (mm |
| January | 21°C | 2°C | Low |
| February | 25°C | 4°C | Low |
| March | 28°C | 8°C | Moderate |
| April | 28°C | 12°C | Moderate |
| May | 30°C | 16°C | Increasing |
| June | 29°C | 20°C | High |
| July | 28°C | 20°C | Very High |
| August | 28°C | 20°C | High |
| September | 27°C | 18°C | Decreasing |
| October | 26°C | 13°C | Low |
| November | 23°C | 7°C | Very Low |
| December | 20°C | 3°C | Low |
Best Months to Visit Kathmandu
- October & November → festivals, clear skies, perfect weather
- March & April → flowers, color, romance, outdoor adventures
- Winter (Dec–Feb) → quiet, sunny days, budget-friendly
- Monsoon (Jun–Aug) → lush greenery, low crowds, best rates
So, the best time to go to Kathmandu, Nepal depends on your style: festivals & trekking (autumn), romance & color (spring), budget travel (winter), or slow, green getaways (monsoon).
Where to Stay in Kathmandu
No matter the season, staying in a central and peaceful location makes exploring the city easier. At Maya Manor Boutique Hotel, Kathmandu you’ll find:
- A quiet garden escape near Thamel, Kathmandu.
- Easy access to nearby attractions like Boudhanath, Patan, and Durbar Square
- Cozy indoor spaces for winter and open-air terraces for spring evenings
When you’re planning your trip around the best time to visit Kathmandu, having the right base makes all the difference.